In 2009, Hughes joined the cast of the series 24 as Secretary of Homeland Security, Tim Woods. He returned to that role in 2010.

Also in 2009 Hughes wrote, produced and starred in the film LEAVE along with Rick Gomez. The film was released in 2011.

In 2013 another film written and produced by Hughes, DARK TOURIST, was released, starring Michael Cudlitz and Melanie Griffith.

In June of 2013 Hughes signed a two picture deal with Warner Brothers and will adapt the novel SHOVEL READY which will star Denzel Washington and will also write the screenplay TIER 1 for the studio with Walter Parkes and Laurie MacDonald producing.